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METROPOLITAN EDUCATION DISTRICT
June 11, 2024
CTE Newsletter Vol. 10 Issue 7
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Hello,
As I greet you today, this will be my final newsletter as Superintendent of Metropolitan Education District. Thank you for your readership. Throughout the years, many people have shared with me that they read our newsletter. Knowing we reached you always touched my heart.
It has been an honor to have the opportunity to lead this great district for 11 years. My 31-year career in Career Technical Education and Adult Education has been rewarding and fulfilling. My heart will always be at MetroED. I love the fact that MetroED is the crown jewel of Silicon Valley.
During the past 11 years, we have brought in over $18 million dollars in grants and numerous equipment donations for classrooms, and $300,000 for scholarship for students. MetroED has a lot to be proud of. I am proud of our high school and adult education programs. I am proud of our students and staff for earning state and national medals in SkillsUSA and HOSA student competitions year after year. I am proud of our video production students consistently receiving recognition from the County of Santa Clara and many local film festivals.
Other success includes recognition for earning:
- The Hoffmann Award for our Fashion and Textile Art Program
- Six CalSPRA Communications Awards, including for our webpage and wellness newsletter
- California School Board Association Golden Bell Award for Fire Science/First Responder program
- Five ACSA Awards for Administrators of the Year
- work2future Community Building Award
- City of San Jose Partnership Recognition
- County of Santa Clara Board of Supervisors Recognition
In closing, I am grateful to our school districts for continuing to partner with us to provide opportunities that lift up our students that lead to college and fulfilling careers in our community. Our goal is to develop our talent pipeline so students can stay, live, and work in Silicon Valley. With many strong leaders, MetroED is poised to continue to grow and flourish over the next decade. I am filled with gratitude for your support.
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Alyssa Lynch
Superintendent
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SVCTE Students Honored at 55th Awards Ceremony
More than 100 students were recognized during the 55th Annual Awards Ceremony on May 17; view the Google photos album. Students, families, and faculty gathered as awards were presented, including valuable tools, equipment, and scholarships donated by our generous partners and sponsors. Watch the livestream.
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Eighth Annual Film Festival Recognizes Student Talent
The Film and Video Production students held their Eighth Annual Film Festival, showcasing a diverse array of short films, documentaries, and creative videos. This included the newest addition to the Iron Gun series, a buddy cop parody film series created by former students Brandon Dunn and Abraham Silva in 2015.
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Medical Assisting Students Certified in Teen Mental Health First Aid
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Nadine Gonzalez's Medical Assisting students completed a three-day training. It certified them in Mental Health First Aid for youth, equipping them with essential skills to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness and substance disorders. This valuable addition to their qualifications is highly sought after in the medical field alongside CPR certification. More photos
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Student Ambassadors Celebrate
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This year's Student Ambassador leaders reached more than 6,000 community members through presentations, shadow days, and tours. Their voices have been instrumental in raising awareness of SVCTE programs and CTE pathways. More photos
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Culinary Students Serve Up Special Dinner for Families
Culinary Arts students really dished out something special as staff and parents savored delicious creations at the parent dinner. More photos
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Culinary students also worked hard and were dedicated in supporting other events with their culinary delights throughout the year, which included:
- 18th Annual Bob McTaggart Custom and Classic Car Show
- Electrical Vehicles/Automotive Services and Nursing Careers Grand Opening-Ribbon Cutting
- Hoffmann Awards Dinner Gala
- High Tea event
- Superintendent Alyssa Lynch’s retirement celebration
- Tiny Home event
- Monthly counselor meetings
- And so much more!
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Ambassador Stephanie Ruiz Pastora Earns President's Volunteer Service Award
SVCTE Student Ambassador Stephanie Ruiz Pastora in advanced Automotive Services from Santa Clara High School in Santa Clara Unified School District, was recently awarded the President's Volunteer Service Award in the bronze category. As a Student Ambassador, Stephanie demonstrated leadership, public speaking, hospitality, and peer mentoring skills.
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More than 50 Adult Students Reach Educational Milestone
SVAE held its graduation on May 31 for 43 High School Diploma graduates and nine High School Equivalency completers. Watch the livestream. Senator Dave Cortese’s office provided certificates of congratulations to the graduating class. Dr. Lisa Andrew, president and chief executive officer with the Silicon Valley Education Foundation, was the keynote speaker. Four High School Diploma graduates were awarded scholarships, including the addition of The Lynch Scholarship, from outgoing MetroED Superintendent Alyssa Lynch. Seventeen students earned academic distinction with a GPA or equivalent of 3.6 or higher. View photos of the celebration in the Google photos album
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Around the World in
One Day!
SVAE embraced global diversity at its International Day on May 23! The event included performances, insightful presentations, and eye-opening videos, capping off with a rendition of "What a Wonderful World." SVAE helped immerse attendees in a vibrant tapestry of our international community. More photos
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Students Visit San Jose City College
SVAE students visited San José City College for a campus trip in May. College tours are valuable resources for adult education students seeking to further their education, advance their careers, or pursue personal interests and goals.
"I believe that a campus visit is an important component in the college selection process," said SVAE Transition Specialist Arezoo Miller. "When making the decision to attend a college, the slickest brochure or virtual tour can only go so far to convince a student. Experiencing the college atmosphere first-hand allows students to determine if they feel comfortable in a school’s environment. This is especially true for potential first time attendees who due to any number of factors, may be hesitant to make a decision to attend college at all."
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Student Leadership Committee Celebrates
SVAE celebrated its final student leadership meeting and end-of-year event with over 20 students. Throughout the year, students attended meetings to learn about leadership, nonviolent communication, mutual support, and more, decorated a display window with themed classwork, and volunteered at CalWORKs’ monthly Second Harvest Food Bank days, a partnership between CalWORKS and Second Harvest Food Bank. During a recent food distribution, more than 100 SVAE and SVCTE student families received food donations at the drive.
At the final student leadership event, attendees reflected on past meetings, sharing lessons learned and personal growth experiences. The celebration concluded with photos, food, and awarding each student leader a T-shirt with the quote "Empowering Minds, Inspiring Futures," which some leaders wore at the SVAE Graduation while assisting with the ceremony.
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CalWORKS Student Jamiel Parker Shares Inspiring Story
At the May Governing Board Meeting, we learned about an adult education CalWORKS’ student Jamiel Parker during a student report. CalWORKS site Supervisor Jaron Daquino shared that not only is he an ideal student but also a dedicated parent and husband who brings a positive vibe wherever he goes. While at SVAE, Jamiel has received his GED, attended the Google Workspace course, and is enrolled in the EKG Technician course. He also attends San Jose City College. Tune into the 50-minute mark at bit.ly/SVAEJamielParkerReport to hear his story now.
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Former Fashion Design & Textile Art Student Anna Truong
Anna Truong was the lead designer for the Barkada Culture Show on April 19 and 20 at Santa Clara University and designed traditional royal costumes for the lead dancers that embodied the ancient roles of a prince and princess. “When I saw my costumes on stage, it made me feel that the long hours and hard work I put into making my vision come to life was well worth it,” Anna said. She is currently a marketing major with a minor in retail studies. Anna attended SVCTE in 2021-2022 from Evergreen Valley High School in East Side Union High School District.
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Former Fire Science Student Mason Firebaugh
Meet Mason Firebaugh who was a dedicated Fire Science student at SVCTE last year from Oak Grove High School in East Side Union High School District. He has earned his EMT certification from Mission College and is continuing his studies at Mission College, working towards an AA in Fire Technology. Here’s a snapshot of his first day on the job as an EMT for NorCal Ambulance, whose headquarters are in Livermore.
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Former Fire Science Student Michael Heering
Michael Heering, who attended SVCTE in 2017 from Gunderson High School in San Jose Unified School District, has been hired by the Modesto Fire Department. This is a shining example of how our students launch into their careers fully prepared, thanks to the exceptional training they receive here while they are in high school.
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MetroED Honors Retiring Superintendent Alyssa Lynch
MetroED Governing Board Members Brian Wheatley and J. Manuel Herrera, Superintendent Alyssa Lynch, Clerk Linda Goytia, Board President Katherine Tseng, and Board Member Jim Canova (pictured above, from left)
A retirement celebration was held for Superintendent Alyssa Lynch to commemorate her 11-year tenure with MetroED. Local and state dignitaries and elected officials, community leaders, colleagues, family, and friends gathered to pay tribute to Alyssa's commitment and contributions to career and technical education and adult education during her 31 years.
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Please take a look at the photos from throughout the event here.
Alyssa received a California Legislature Resolution, which was presented to her by some of the representatives from the offices of Evan Low from the 26th Assembly District, Alex Lee from the 24th Assembly District, Dave Cortese from the 15th Senatorial District, and Aisha Wahab from the 10th Senatorial District (pictured right).
"My heart will always be with MetroED, the crown jewel of Silicon Valley," Alyssa said. "In 2013, I came to MetroED, and I saw it as a goldmine. It sits on 26 acres and is the land of opportunity for all our students."
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Joe Simitian Recognized by Region 8 Association for California School Administrators (ACSA) Awards for Helping Launch MetroED Programs
Metropolitan Education District Superintendent Alyssa Lynch, Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian, County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mary Ann Dewan, and Metropolitan Education District Governing Board President Katherine Tseng (pictured above left, from left).
The Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) Region 8 honored Santa Clara County Supervisor Joe Simitian as the 2024 Partners in Educational Excellence Award recipient. Simitian was also chosen for the ACSA Statewide Award, with the recognition being held on November 15 in San Diego. Each year, ACSA honors students, administrators, and community organizations for their achievements and dedication to public education at the regional and state levels.
"Simitian’s award is well-deserved, and we are grateful for his tireless advocacy in championing education as a cornerstone for building thriving communities,” MetroED’s Superintendent Alyssa Lynch said. “His steadfast support and collaborative spirit have been instrumental in bringing innovative programs to fruition at MetroED, paving the way for a brighter future for our students." Read the News Release
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Fashion Program Receives Hoffmann Award at Ceremony Held at MetroED
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MetroED Announces Teacher and
Classified Employees of the Year
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SVAE English as a Second Language Teacher Marion Clark was announced as MetroED's Teacher of the Year. She has worked for MetroED for three years. She will be honored at the Santa Clara County Office of Education Teacher Recognition Celebration in the fall, among the 31 other district Teachers of the Year from throughout the county.
“Marion is a dedicated, well-organized, and well-planned teacher,” said colleague and CalWORKs Supervisor Jaron Daquina. “Every time I step into her class, her students are happy and ready to learn.”
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SVCTE site registrar Helen Tran was named the Classified School Employee of the Year. She has worked for MetroED for 22 years.
“Helen understands and contributes to achieving MetroED’s mission of preparing high school and adult students for future success in college and careers,” the SVCTE Leadership Team shared.
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18th Annual Bob McTaggart Custom and Classic Car Show Draws More than 200 Show Cars
SVCTE’s 18th Annual Bob McTaggart Custom and Classic Car Show ignited a spark in automotive enthusiasts and casual onlookers alike as they attended to see the variety of meticulously restored classics and custom rides. Watch the event video
The event drew 225 show cars, and raised just over $9,500 and an additional donation of $3,000 from Del Grande Dealer Group. All proceeds from the car show will benefit SkillsUSA, a partnership of students, teachers, and industry working together to ensure America has a skilled workforce. More photos
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MetroED Superintendent Alyssa Lynch Shares Best CTE Practices During CSBA Event
Career Technical Education (CTE) is taking center stage as a top priority. Back in 2023, the California Department of Education laid out a comprehensive state plan for CTE, aimed at cultivating a diverse, skilled workforce crucial for sustaining our state's economic strength and fulfilling labor market needs. MetroED Superintendent Alyssa Lynch shared success stories and best practices from our CTE programs at the recent California School Boards Association (CSBA) Directors-at-Large Breakfast in Sacramento. Alongside her was Alicia Caddell, CTE Coordinator from Folsom Cordova Unified School District. More photos
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Local Dealerships Donate Vehicles to SVCTE Electrical Vehicles/Automotive Services Program
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Thanks to our partners at Ford Motor Company and Mission Valley Ford Trucks, a 2023 Ford Explorer rolled into the shop bay as a donation for SVCTE’s Electrical Vehicles/Automotive Services program. The car has 23 miles and is valued at $51,610. EV students will use the vehicle for New Model Ford training. Ford Motor Company representative Juan Maldonado secured the donation two years after the launch of the Ford ACE program. More photos
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2019 Hyundai Kona
SVCTE’s Electrical Vehicles/Automotive Services program recently received a donation from Hyundai Motor America, including a 2019 Hyundai Kona EV with 7,438 miles valued at $17,908 and a GDSM scan tool kit worth $3,433.62.
DGDG Capitol Hyundai Service Director Tray Nichols (pictured, left) attended the event, reflecting on attending SVCTE when it was CCOC and he was a sophomore at Los Gatos High School in the '80s. On having the opportunity to give back, he shared: "It feels cool. It's great. This is where my career started and this is a promising career for all other people, from entry level to technician." More photos
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Both of these donations occurred following new partnerships, which are giving SVCTE students hands-on experience with advanced automotive technology. The students will be focusing on essential e-learning courses such as Hyundai EV/Hybrid Safety, New Vehicle Model Introduction, and Scan Tool Diagnostics. The students will complete courses and also gain experience by performing Ford Vehicle Maintenance and Pre-Delivery Inspections.
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Positions are Available at MetroED!
We are currently seeking applicants that would be an excellent fit for our team. The district pays full health benefits to eligible employees and their dependents, including dental, life, and an employee assistance program. You can click below to learn more.
MetroED Current Openings
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MetroED Governing Board Updates
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MetroED Governing Board Meeting
Please visit our online Diligent page to see past meeting minutes and agendas. You can also view upcoming MetroED Governing Board meeting agendas and Governing Board Policies.
Next meeting: June 12, at 5:30 p.m. | In-person, SVCTE Auditorium, Room 201
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June 10 | SVCTE & SVAE Summer School Begins
June 12 | Governing Board Meeting
June 19 | Juneteenth (Local Holiday)
July 4 | Fourth of July (Federal Holiday)
August 8 | SVCTE & SVAE First Day of Fall Semester
August 14 | Governing Board Meeting
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